Whats the Difference Between Towing Capacity and Weight Distribution Towing Capacity?
Question:
What is the difference between Weight distribution towing capacity? And towing capacity? Thank you
asked by: Jeff
Helpful Expert Reply:
I can help explain the difference between the listing for towing weight and weight distribution towing capacity for you.
Let's use the Draw-Tite Class V Trailer Hitch # DT45502, which is a confirmed fit for you 1992 Ford, that you were looking at. This hitch has a towing capacity of 1,200lbs tongue weight and 12,000lbs towing weight. This would be the limits of the hitch when used with only the hitch, ball mount, and ball setup. See first attached picture. You will always be limited to your lowest rated item in your setup which ultimately could be your vehicle, these capacities are typically listed on the placard on the inside of your drivers door frame or in your owner's manual.
If you were to use a weight distribution system with the Draw-Tite Class V Trailer Hitch # DT45502, shown in the second image, then the towing capacity of the hitch will remain at 1,200lbs tongue weight and 12,000lbs towing weight. These capacities are determined by the manufacture and increase because of the strength and support the weight distribution takes on. A weight distribution system helps to ensure a smooth, level ride and allows you to tow to the maximum capacity allowed by your hitch. It is important to note that a weight distribution system will not increase the towing capacity of your vehicle.
A weight distribution system is recommended if your trailer weight is more than 50 percent of your vehicle's weight.
I have linked a Help Article on Weight Distributions and Towing for your convenience.
Products Referenced in This Question
Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class V - 2-1/2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class V
- 1200 lbs TW
- 12000 lbs GTW
- 14000 lbs WD GTW
- 2-1/2 Inch Hitch
- 1700 lbs WD TW
- Visible Cross Tube
- Draw-Tite
more information >
Product Page this Question was Asked From
Draw-Tite Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class V - 2-1/2"
- Trailer Hitch
- Custom Fit Hitch
- Class V
- 1200 lbs TW
- 12000 lbs GTW
- 14000 lbs WD GTW
- 2-1/2 Inch Hitch
- 1700 lbs WD TW
- Visible Cross Tube
- Draw-Tite
more information >
Featured Help Information
Instructions
Miscellaneous Media
Continue Researching
- Shop: Trailer Hitch
- Shop: Trailer Wiring
- Shop: Brake Controller
- Video: Making sure the Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller Fits
- Shop: Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class IV - 2"
- Video: Installing the Curt Replacement OEM Wiring Harness on a 2017 Ford F-150
- Shop: Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class IV - 2"
- Article: 5 Things to Know About Weight Distribution Hitches
- Shop: Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver - Custom Fit - Class III - 2"
- Shop: Redarc Tow-Pro Liberty Brake Controller w/ Universal Wiring Harness - Dash Knob - Proportional
- Shop: Tekonsha OEM Replacement Vehicle Wiring Harness w Brake Controller Adapter - 7 Way Trailer Connector
- Search Results: liner
- Shop: Replacement OEM Wiring Harness for Ford F-150
- Q&A: 2022 Toyota Highlander Wiring for a 7-Way Blade Connector
- Shop: Base Plate for Tow Bar
- Shop: Universal Installation Kit for Trailer Brake Controller - 7-Way RV and 4-Way Flat - 10 Gauge Wires
- Video: Best 2014 Ford F-150 Hitch Options
- Video: Installing the Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver on your 2014 Ford F-150
- Video: 2014 Ford F-150 Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver: Complete Installation
- Video: DIY 2011 Ford F-150 Installation for the Draw-Tite Max-Frame Trailer Hitch Receiver
- Search Results: brake controller
- Video: How to Set Up Your Curt Trailer Hitch Receiver on a 2021 Toyota Highlander
- Q&A: Which Trailer Hitch for a 1996 Ford F-250/F-350 Fits Tightest Under the Bumper
- Q&A: How Does Draw-Tite 2-1/2 Inch Trailer Hitch Install on a 1988 Ford F-250
- Q&A: Troubleshooting a Tekonsha P3 Brake Controller With Trailer Brakes That are not Showing Power
- Q&A: Recommended Trailer Hitch and 7-way Connector For 2020 Toyota Highlander Limited
- Search Results: 7 pin
- Search Results: mounting hardware
- Article: Best Vehicles to Flat Tow Behind an RV
- Search Results: weatherproof outlet cover
on Trailer Hitch
